2021Horse Heaven Hills Claret
2021Horse Heaven Hills Claret
The 2021 vintage was characterized by below-average precipitation in the winter, early bud break in late March, and moderately early bloom under hot and windy conditions in late May and early June. Bloom conditions produced small berries, clusters, and low yields. Veraison started early, but was completed on a typical timeline. The famous “heat dome” event of late June shattered high temperature records across all regions and was truly the most defining weather event of the vintage. High temperatures through veraison initiated sugar advancement, yet flavor development and phenolic ripeness lagged. Acidity was low compared to average. Patience was rewarded for those that waited to harvest, as cool. fall temperatures allowed for flavor to catch up and sugar accumulation to plateau. Overall, the white wines from this vintage are expressive, ripe, and rich; the red wines display strong varietal typicity and are intensely concentrated with great structure. Harvest temperatures in September and October were characteristically cool, with few rain events and no early frost.
Shimmering with pale garnet and vermilion hues, the 2021 Matthews Horse Heaven Hills Claret captivates with its elegance and depth. Enticing aromas of crushed rock, ripe black and blue fruits, sarsaparilla, and delicate spring flowers are interlaced, hinting at the complexity within. On the palate, juicy black cherries meld with warm baking spices and nuanced cigar wrapper undertones, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Its sumptuous weight and texture are enhanced by fine-grained tannins, providing a luscious mouthfeel that is both refined and luxurious. Decadent notes of black licorice, melted caramel, and cocoa powder persist throughout the lingering finish, leaving a memorable impression.
Awards & Accolades
"The 2021 Matthews ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Claret combines mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (68%) with the reminder Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The Cabernet is really shining here. Deep espresso ground and cassis notes combine with suggestions of baking spices, chocolate covered black cherry and light herbal accents on the palate. This offers good freshness with a smooth texture as this is going to satisfy for at least another twelve years.""
- 95 points Owen Bargreen, owenbargreen.com